What is the Watchdog Model? 

The Watchdog Model is the theory that the mass media serves as a check on the government. That is, the media serves as a watchdog to inform the public of government activities that could affect their interests. 

Principles of democracy are based largely upon the notion of the free and open press. This allows for the dissemination of information (particularly information about the Government), without fear of Government restriction, censorship, or retribution.